British pubs closing at a rate of almost two per day in 2026

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. British pubs closing at a rate of almost two per day in 2026 Just now Share Save Add as preferred on Google Tabby Wilson EPA Approximately two British pubs closed a day in the first quarter of 2026, according to figures produced by the industry. The British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) says 161 pubs closed in the first three months of this year across England, Scotland and Wales, equating to the loss of around 2,400 jobs. Earlier this year, the government announced business rates support for pubs after warnings from the sector that further tax changes could lead to more closures.

The 15% tax relief for pubs and music venues came into effect last month. The BBPA said the latest closure figures highlighted a need for longer-term changes, including a wider overhaul of taxes on the hospitality sector. It comes after 336 British pubs reported closures in 2025.

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"The scale of these closures is avoidable because pubs are doing a brisk trade, but their profits are wiped out by a disproportionate tax burden and huge costs," said Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA. Her statement went on: "We want to work with government to establish a permanent long-term plan that will deliver permanently lower bills, a fairer system and ultimately protect this treasured sector. " Pubs and hospitality venues across the UK have been under increased pressure in recent years, which has been attributed to increased labour costs, rising business rates and shifting consumer habits.

According to the latest data for Great Britain, Wales is the only region to report an increased number of pubs. Scotland has suffered the heaviest losses, with 41 closures between January and March this year. Why are so many pubs and clubs closing?

A government spokesperson said it was "backing Britain's pubs" by cutting April's business rates bills by 15%, which will be followed by a two-year freeze, extending World Cup opening hours and increasing the Hospitality Support Fund to £10m to help venues grow. The government also plans to build on its Pride in Palace programme, which sees grants allocated for "locally-led solutions" in 280 neighbourhoods in England, as part of their scheme to revitalise high streets. "This comes on top of capping corporation tax, cutting alcohol duty on draught pints and six cuts in interest rates, benefiting businesses in every part of Britain," the spokesperson said.

The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.